This revised edition of the standard introduction to computer animation reflects the latest developments in the field. It explains the basic concepts and techniques, while covering new topics to keep readers up to date.

If you work with or wish to use 3D computer animation, or want to gain a thorough and systematic understanding of computer animation - even if you have no prior knowledge of computers, computer graphics, mathematics, or programming - Principles of Three-Dimensional Computer Animation is for you. It explains, in terms laymen can understand, the general principles that underlie all 3D computer animation systems, without recourse to mathematical equations or programming code. This book is not a software manual. It does not deal with the specific implementation of the principles of three-dimensional computer animation by any one software package. Rather, it provides a thorough understanding of the basic concepts and techniques - modeling, rendering, animating, and recording to film and video - on which computer animation is based. With this knowledge in hand, you can quickly learn the operation of specific software packages. In addition to the fundamentals, the book covers advanced animation techniques and compositing and special effects, all of them found in commercially available software packages. Whether you are a beginning student of computer graphics or a professional involved in projects that involve 3D computer animation, you will find the information you need presented in a clear and readable style, illustrated with hundreds of drawings, diagrams, and renderings.

A clearly written guide for the professional or student interested in the production of 3-D computer images. This non-platform specific guide provides a wealth of understandable information, four-color and black and white illustrations, and hundreds of tips. Written by an authority in the field, this book takes the reader through a step-by-step approach to learning this exciting.

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The essential fundamentals of 3D animation for aspiring 3D artists 3D is everywhere--video games, movie and television special effects, mobile devices, etc. Many aspiring artists and animators have grown up with 3D and computers, and naturally gravitate to this field as their area of interest. Bringing a blend of studio and classroom experience to offer you thorough coverage of the 3D animation industry, this must-have book shows you what it takes to create compelling and realistic 3D imagery. Serves as the first step to understanding the language of 3D and computer graphics (CG) Covers 3D animation basics: pre-production, modeling, animation, rendering, and post-production Dissects core 3D concepts including design, film, video, and games Examines what artistic and technical skills are needed to succeed in the industry Offers helpful real-world scenarios and informative interviews with key educators and studio and industry professionals Whether you're considering a career in as a 3D artist or simply wish to expand your understanding of general CG principles, this book will give you a great overview and knowledge of core 3D Animation concepts and the industry.

Master the art of computer animation and visual effects production with the latest edition of this cutting-edge guide This remarkable edition of The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects offers clear, step-by-step guidelines for the entire process of creating a fully rendered 3D computer animation. With up-to-date coverage of the latest computer animation styles and techniques, this versatile guide provides insightful information for creating animations and visual effects—from creative development and preproduction to finished animation. Designed to work with any computer platform, this Fourth Edition cuts through technical jargon and presents numerous easy-to-understand instructive diagrams. Full-color examples are presented—including VFX and animated feature movies, games, and TV commercials—by such leading companies as Blue Sky, Blur, BUF, Disney, DreamWorks, Electronic Arts, Framestore, ILM, Imagi, Microsoft, Mac Guff, The Mill, Menfond, Pixar, Polygon, Rhythm & Hues, Sony Imageworks, Tippett, Ubisoft, and Weta, and many other studios and groundbreaking independent artists from around the world. This fully revised edition features new material on the latest visual effects techniques, a useful update of the traditional principles of animation, practical information on creative development, multiple production pipeline ideas for shorts and visual effects, plus updated information on current production trends and techniques in animation, rendering, modeling, rigging, and compositing. Whether you are a student, an independent artist or creator, or a production company team member, The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects, Fourth Edition gives you a broad palette of tips and techniques for bringing your visions to life through 3D computer animation. Unique focus on creative development and production issues Non-platform specific, with multiple examples illustrated in a practical, step-by-step approach The newest computer animation techniques, including facial animation, image-based and non-photorealistic rendering, model rigging, real-time models, and 2D/3D integration Over 700 full-color images Encyclopedic timeline and production pipelines

As an introduction to the basics of computer graphics, the approach here focusses on the four main concepts: modeling, rendering, animation, and image manipulation. The authors provide a "learning-by-doing" environment, comprising plenty of hands-on exercises and software. The graphics library provided with the book helps simplify the programming required of readers whilst providing a robust platform for experimentation. Exercises at the end of each chapter illustrate the principles covered.